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Healthwise Maui: Experts answer your health-related questions

Editor’s note: Physicians, providers and administrative staff who practice at Maui Health hospitals and clinics answer questions from the public in Healthwise Maui, which appears on Thursdays. Maui Health operates Maui Memorial Medical Center, Maui Memorial Medical Center Outpatient Clinic, Kula Hospital & Clinic and Lana’i Community Hospital and accepts all patients. To submit a question, go to the website at mauihealth.org/healthwise.

Q: How can I manage loneliness to protect my mental health?

Dr. Giulietta Swenson, Behavioral Health, Pacific Permanente Group: It’s common to feel lonely. In fact, there is an “Epidemic of Loneliness” in our country, which is somewhat ironic when there are so many new technological tools to help us communicate and connect. Whether you’re alone because you’re far from family, newly single, or coping with a recent loss, it’s important to know that feelings of loneliness are normal, part of the human experience, and can actually be managed and shifted into new experiences.

Remember that being alone and feeling lonely are two different things. Some people may have a tendency to self-isolate. It’s important to find a balance between “alone-time” and planning social interactions. By having a plan to manage social isolation, you can have a positive impact on your mental health.

Start by recognizing and addressing some of the things that trigger your loneliness. That might mean staying off social media if seeing other people’s celebrations brings up negative emotions. If you’re dealing with loss, a grief support group could give you a place to find community and feel understood.

Practice self-care by keeping active, eating healthy food, and getting enough sleep. Avoid using alcohol or drugs to dull your feelings.

Next, plan some strategies to help you cope with loneliness.

Volunteering and mentorship are proven mood-boosters that can help you feel connected and fulfilled.

Use technology to bolster your social connections. Connect with far-away loved ones by planning a video chat, sharing photos, or even playing an online game together.

Look for a group class on a subject you’re interested in or take up a creative practice like crafting or playing music.

Plan to enjoy your alone time by doing some of your favorite activities like surfing, reading a book, or gardening.

Connect with your culture through traditional foods and traditions. If faith is part of your background, attend a religious service or other church gatherings.

If you find yourself dwelling on feelings of loneliness, practice reframing your thoughts. Challenge negative self-talk, breathe, or try a gratitude practice to shift your mindset. Practicing self-compassion is so important.

Even with coping strategies, you may still feel sad. Allow yourself to feel your feelings and give yourself grace. Remind yourself that it’s common to feel this way, and your feelings are OK.

Many people feel lonely, but if you find yourself struggling, don’t be afraid to get help. There are many caring professionals and agencies that provide exceptional support. Talk with a mental health professional — or dial 988 for immediate support if you or a loved one is in crisis.

Q: What exactly are chronic wounds, and why is it important to seek specialized care?

Jessica Acop, RN, Program Director, Maui Memorial Medical Center Wound Care and Hyperbaric Therapy: Chronic wounds are injuries to the skin or tissue that fail to heal within a typical timeframe — weeks or even months.

They are often linked to conditions like diabetes, poor circulation, or prolonged pressure on the skin. Left untreated, these wounds can lead to serious complications such as infections or even amputations. Specialized wound care is essential, as experts use advanced treatments to promote healing, prevent complications, and improve overall health and quality of life.

Early detection plays a key role in preventing chronic wounds from worsening. Signs to watch for include wounds that don’t heal after a few weeks, pain, redness, swelling, discharge or a foul odor, as well as fever, chills, or wounds that reopen or worsen instead of healing. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately — early treatment can make all the difference.

Having access to a specialized wound care center on Maui is vital because it allows our residents to receive advanced treatments without the need to travel to Oahu or the mainland. For example, diabetic foot ulcers often require daily hyperbaric oxygen treatments, which can last for weeks or months. Having access to this care locally means patients can stay with their families and maintain their daily lives and support system, which is essential for healing.

Maui Memorial Medical Center’s wound care clinic becomes a second home for patients during their treatment and patients are treated like family — a level of personalized care that isn’t possible off-island.

To learn more about advanced wound care services available on Maui, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, visit mauihealth.org/woundcare.

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